APPLE MACBOOK PRO 13
Radically overhauled last year, Apple's MacBook line of laptops moved to aluminium construction, edge-to-edge glass over LED displays, and oversize multi-touch trackpads (with the exception of the lone AU$1599 white plastic model). The latest round of updates is more of a refinement than another revolution, but it adds some much-sought-after features, while lowering prices on many configurations.
Most notable, the 13-inch aluminium unibody MacBook has been promoted to join the MacBook Pro family. It's a move that makes sense, as the differences between the two lines were becoming increasingly blurred. To complete the transformation, the 13-inch Pro regains its missing FireWire port, making it even more useful for creative professionals on the go.
New to the Pro line is something we never thought we'd see on a MacBook: an SD card slot. Standard on the 13- and 15-inch Pro laptops, this corrects one of our main MacBook annoyances. We're also pleased to see the backlit keyboard — previously found in only the more expensive 13-inch versions — filter down to even the AU$1899 base model.
Some have strong feelings about the non-removable battery — similar to those already found on the MacBook Air and 17-inch Pro. It's a legitimate concern, but we think the promise of better battery life (Apple claims up to a 40 per cent improvement), and three times as many recharge cycles as older batteries is just as important.
There are still a few items on our 13-inch wish list — matte screens, mobile broadband options, Blu-ray — but Apple has done an admirable job filling in some of the major missing pieces. By offering more features for less money, the 13-inch MacBook Pro remains one of the most universally useful laptops available. Design The design and construction of the system remain largely the same as last year's model, with a solid block of aluminium carved down, rather than a thin outer shell that has had support struts added to it. It's both lighter and sturdier than the older plastic versions of the 13-inch MacBook.
The new Pro also retains the same oversize trackpad, where the entire surface depresses like a button — although a simple tapping (as on a PC laptop) will also work once you turn that option on in the settings menu. We've become accustomed to the two-, three-, and four-finger multi-touch gestures, which let you hide all your apps by sweeping four fingers up on the pad, or bring up the application switcher by sweeping four fingers left or right. Once you get used to that, going back to a regular touch pad is difficult.
Apple says the new display offers a wider colour gamut, and the screen certainly looks bright and colourful, but we wish the same matte-screen option offered on the 17-inch MacBook Pro was available across the line. The 13.3-inch widescreen LCD display offers a 1280x800 native resolution, which is standard for screens this size, but we'd love to see Apple try its hand at a 16:9 laptop display.
While the LED screen means a thinner lid and some battery life benefits, the edge-to-edge glass covering the entire display panel grabs stray light rays with ease, making the glossy screen hard to see in some lighting conditions. Features By bringing back the FireWire port (now FireWire 800) and adding an SD card slot, Apple has addressed most of our most pressing issues with the previous 13-inch model. Pro photographers will point out that they usually use CF cards, but the rest of us won't have to always remember to pack a USB card reader or cable to directly connect our cameras. Connecting to another video display, however, will require a sold-separately dongle for the Mini-DisplayPort video output. Performance The 13-inch MacBook Pro performed as expected in our benchmark tests, with the 2.26GHz GHz Intel Core 2 Duo CPU roughly on par with the 2.4GHz processor in the late-2008 version of the 13-inch MacBook. Trading up to the faster 2.8GHz Core 2 Duo available in the 15-inch MacBook Pro yields a marked improvement on paper, but for most anecdotal use (web surfing, working on office docs, multimedia playback) any of the current MacBooks will be more than adequate. An even faster 3.08GHz CPU is available on the 15-inch MacBook Pro, but the 13-inch model tops out at 2.53GHz.
We found the same Nvidia GeForce 9400 graphics as last time — a GPU that redefined the meaning of integrated graphics. The previous 13-inch MacBook gave us almost 60 frames per second in Quake IV (admittedly not the most hardware-intensive game) at 1024x768 resolution. Only the 15- and 17-inch versions offer the second, discrete GeForce 9600 GPU. But being able to play new games, even at lower resolutions, on this system is a major plus for non-hardcore gamers.
The new battery in the 13- and 15-inch MacBook Pros is non-removable, but Apple claims the system can last up to seven hours while surfing the web, and about half that for DVD playback. To assuage concerns about the sealed battery, the company says the new models are good for at least 1000 full recharge cycles — which they estimate to be about five years of use. We were able to run the system for four hours and 40 minutes on our video playback battery drain test, which is about 40 minutes longer than last year's 13-inch MacBook and more than an hour longer than the basic white MacBook — the only model Apple still offers with the older removable battery.
Unfortunately, we haven't seen any changes to the basics of Apple's warranty and support plans. New MacBooks still include a standard one-year, parts-and-labour warranty, but only 90 days of toll-free telephone support. This, along with the proprietary nature of Apple's products, makes purchasing an extended Apple Care warranty almost a necessity, but a necessity that will cost AU$419 for three total years of coverage for 13-inch systems and AU$579 for 15- and 17-inch models. http://www.zdnet.com.au/reviews/hardware/laptops/soa/Apple-MacBook-Pro-13-inch-June-2009-/0,2000065761,339296879,00.htm
CNET Asia Review By **Stephanie Bruzzese** Aug 18, 2004 IBM's new ThinkPad R51 focuses on function. The mainstream laptop's plain black case doesn't elicit excitement, but its fast Pentium M processor and ATI Mobility Radeon graphics chip deliver ample horsepower for the average user in the home or business. In addition to speed, the IBM ThinkPad R51 boasts some cool component options, such as a 15-inch display with a fine 1,400x1,050 native resolution, a DVD-RW drive, and integrated 802.11b/g wireless. Load up on these options, however, and you could owe IBM a pretty penny, because high-end configurations are pricey. If you're a typical business or home user on a budget and you'd be satisfied with a basic configuration, give the IBM ThinkPad R51 a try. Those with a few more Ben Franklins, however, should graduate to a better-equipped thin-and-light laptop, such as the IBM ThinkPad T41 or the HP nc8000.
Editors' note:
The test configuration came loaded with a Banias-based Pentium M 1.6GHz processor, a maximum resolution of 1400 x 1050 and no FireWire. However, the unit which comes with a S$3,525 (US$2,495.58) pricetag has a Dothan-based Pentium M Processor 725 1.6GHz with a maximum resolution of 1024 x 768 and FireWire connectivity. Please check with your local distributor for more information.
Design
The IBM ThinkPad R51's no-nonsense design doesn't knock our socks off, but this mainstream laptop successfully meets the demands of mobile computing on a tight budget. The 332 x 269 x 38.1 mm laptop weighs 3.0kg on its own, and it's 3.35kg with the AC adapter. One of its best features is a big, 15-inch screen with a high 1,400 x 1,050 native resolution that renders crisp graphics. The wide, comfortable keyboard comes in a close second, offering a familiar, desktoplike layout with one glaring omission: a useful Windows key that activates the Windows Start menu and gives you instant access to applications and system tools. IBM's signature red pointing stick rests above the B key, with a trio of complementary mouse and scroll buttons in the wrist rest below. The company also keeps touch-pad fans in mind, including a pad with two additional mouse buttons. Three handy volume-up, volume-down, and mute buttons sit in the upper-left corner above the board, along with an Access IBM button that connects you to online help and support for the R51.
The IBM ThinkPad R51 includes one convenient, swappable drive bay that supports various modules, including a cutting-edge DVD-RW drive. The 9.5mm-high modules for the thin-and-light IBM ThinkPad T42 conveniently fit in the R51's 12.7mm bay, but not vice versa. The bay opens out of the right edge, which also has a VGA port. A smattering of standard ports and slots reside on the left edge: there are ports for 56Kbps modem, Ethernet (either 10/100 or Gigabit, depending on which configuration you choose), headphone, microphone, S-Video out, two USB 2.0, and two Type II (one Type III) PC Card slots. FireWire isn't included in the offering. A lone parallel port occupies the back edge. The front edge slopes in, making the system appear slightly slimmer from a head-on view. Unfortunately, however, this design also points the speakers and their tinny sound down at your desk rather than straight at you. Features
IBM offers a dizzying array of component options for the ThinkPad R51, including Celeron M or Pentium M processors, ranging from 1.3GHz to 1.7GHz; up to 2GB of fast 333MHz SDRAM; a CD, DVD, DVD/CD-RW, or DVD-RW drive; a 4,200rpm hard drive measuring between 20GB and 80GB; and a 5,400rpm hard drive at 40GB or 80GB. The R51 comes with IBM's Active Protection System, designed to protect your hard drive from sudden jolts. You can choose among three graphics options: the Intel Extreme Graphics 2 (855GME) integrated graphics subsystem, which borrows up to 64MB of video memory from system RAM, as well as ATI's Mobility Radeon 7500 or 9000 graphics chips with 32MB of dedicated video memory. Screen sizes range from 14.1 to 15 inches, and they feature native resolutions of either 1,024x768, which makes for large, easily readable text, or 1,400x1,050, which results in smaller text but more detailed graphics. You can also choose between 802.11g and dual-band 802.11g/a adapters.
The IBM Web site doesn't list all of these options, though. If you don't see an option online, order your system by phone. Keep in mind, however, that you can usually save a little cash by choosing an Express (that is, preconfigured) model from the site.
With all these options, how do you configure the ideal laptop? Luckily, based on the IBM ThinkPad R51's impressive performance in CNET Labs' tests, you can likely pick low-end parts without sacrificing too much speed. Plus, high-end models tend to cost more than comparably configured systems, such as the Gateway M405XL.
One of three Microsoft Windows operating systems comes preloaded on the IBM ThinkPad R51: XP Home, XP Professional, and for those who still can't make the leap to XP, Windows 2000. IBM also throws in InterVideo's WinDVD Creator for systems with a DVD-RW drive, and an IBM-branded version of Sonic's RecordNow for laptops with a DVD/CD-RW drive. IBM also bundles its Rescue and Recovery software for data retrieval when your system's in trouble. Finally, the company includes one user license for the Lotus SmartSuite Millennium office suite, along with the option to buy several variations of Microsoft Office. Performance
Mobile application performance
The IBM ThinkPad R51 easily takes the top spot in this small test group. The R51 scored 12 percent ahead of its nearest competitor, the Gateway M405, and 15 percent ahead of the Toshiba Satellite M30-S350. This performance difference can be attributed mostly to the fact that the IBM ThinkPad R51 houses twice the RAM of its comparison systems. Battery Life
Although the IBM ThinkPad R51 came in last place in battery life in CNET Labs' tests, the difference between being first and last is only six minutes. With its 10.8V, 4,400mAh (48WHr) battery the IBM ThinkPad R51 was able to achieve more than four hours of battery life, placing it neck and neck with competing systems. The Toshiba Satellite M30-S350 with its 10.8V, 4,400mAh (48WHr) battery, and the Gateway M405, with its 11.1V, 4,400mAh (49WHr) battery, both lasted only a few minutes longer. We think four hours is a good showing for the IBM ThinkPad R51. Service And Support
The IBM ThinkPad R51's base warranty includes a single year of free parts and labor with return-to-depot service--a standard warranty for the laptop industry. But the company offers a long list of upgrades that max out at $399 for four years of onsite, next-business-day service. Toll-free, 24-hour phone support lasts for the length of your warranty.
IBM's support Web site features an extensive, drill-down design that offers news, downloads, and other info about your R51. The site's Submit a Request feature allows you to contact support electronically, but we wish the company offered the more efficient ability to chat with a support rep in real time. http://asia.cnet.com/reviews/notebooks/0,39050488,39074140p,00.htm
Component 4 – Technical and Operational Understandings Verity Wilkinson Introduction:
Laptops are a smaller and more compacted version of a Desktop Computer. They are portable which allows people to take their work anywhere. They all have a built in keyboard, display screen and hard-drives which can vary in size. Laptops come in a variety of sizes from small 13inch to large 17inch. There are many variations of Laptops because of their popularity with students, offices and in the family home.
Two laptops that I am comparing are the IBM ThinkPad and the Apple Mac Pro. IBM ThinkPad:
The IBM ThinkPad is a larger computer with fast mobile performance, wide keyboard and 15 inch screen. It comes with a 56kbps modern, two USB ports, type 2 SD card slot, CD-WR /DVD-ROM, headphones and microphone ports and a 256GB solid state drive although this is low storage to run Windows XP. The battery life lasts around 4 hours.
It has 802.11b/g wireless internet, Pentium M 1.5GHz which provides an improvement in the speed of the processors and the wireless networking. Also has an ATI Mobility Radeon Graphic chip which delivers lots of horsepower for the average family home.
Pros -It comes with Windows XP professional OS -APS hard drive Protection -Well priced -Full sized Keyboard
Cons -Low storage and Memory for most users they will need to upgrade the memory. -Lacks well know productivity software -Low quality graphic Apple Mac book Pro 13:
The Apple Mac Book is offered with three different screens 13inch, 15inch and 17inch all varying in prices. The 13inch Mac book weight only 2.04kg and 2.40cm thick which make it easily portable like an extra book. This model has a better battery life then previous Mac books. The battery last for around 4 an half hours with 1000 recharges.
It has many similar aspects to the ThinkPad with two USB ports, headphone and microphone ports, Type 1 and 2 SD card slot and a solid state drive of 256GB. The Mac Book Pro is LED back it on the keyboard and screen, Multi-touch track-pad, a FireWire of 800 and Wi-Fi technology built in which allows the Mac Book to join with any wireless networks. There is a resolution of 1280x800 which is standard for screens of 13inch.
Warranty is the Apple Mac Book standard 1 year and for extra three year warranty it is at an extra cost of $420.
Pros
- Bright screen
- Long battery life
- SD Card slot
- Can run on both Windows and OX S
Cons
- No matte screen
- Low volume
- No ExpressCard/34 slot which is in other Mac Books Prices The cost of a Mac Book Pro 13 is $2399.00 and the price goes up with the different sizes (15inch, 17inch) and if there up grades put on the computer e.g. extra memory. This is less than the price of the ThinkPad which is $2,899.00 the ThinkPad cost more because it is larger computer. If the Mac Book Pro was the same size it would around the same price. Hard-wear
With all Laptops there are many other technologies hardware that can be used including a simple mouse or USB to a Printer, Scanner, and Portable Hard-drives. These are all at an extra cost to the computer. Soft wear For each computer a Windows or similar starting program is required. All Laptops have an Internet Search program for web surfing. Although for word publishing another soft-wear is required for example Mircosoft Word. Microsoft has other programs that would be needed for just basic word publishing. Adobe supplies the good programs for design. Again like the Hard-wear all soft-wear is at an extra cost.
PC Laptops Mia Murdock The technology -Portable -As good or can be better than computers -Able to run all processing and publishing programs -Can easily be used to perform desktop publishing -Where all the publishing is done before taken to the printers Comparing a PC Laptop to a Mac book -PC’s are cheaper that Mac’s -If the optical drive in an iMac or mini dies, owners must pay for Apple's proprietary replacement parts or buy an expensive external DVD burner, this is because the internal drives are built into the chassis, they aren't user-replaceable parts. -Mac OS is superior to Windows for graphic design and desktop publishing as these softwares run better on Mac’s.
Therefore Mac would be better for desktop publishing than a PC. Hardware/Software required -Software needed is specially designed programs for desktop publishing such as Adobe Photoshop, InDesign etc -Hardware needed is a suitably sized hard drive large enough to store photos, end products and the software Cost and reliability of the products -PC’s are often very reliable -A good laptop will cost over $1000 -Ongoing cost of having to update software -Often warranty on computers therefore don’t have to pay for repairs for certain amount of time -Laptops become out of date very quickly
Presentation 2: Component 4 – Technical and Operational Understandings By Kate Dornin There has always been a debate about whether Mac or PC is better. But for years it was hard to compare them as many components were very different. But since Macs have changed over to Intel Processors it has made the comparison easier. PC makers are copying Apple’s range of features to remain competitive and now days the two types of computers are extremely similar.
I compared the low-end MacBook Pro to a windows Dell Precision M4400 The Dell laptop has a better processor with a 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo with 6MB of Level 2 cache, where as the MacBook Pro has a 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo with 3MB of Level 2 cache. The dell has more memory with 4GB as standard and is additionally expandable up to 8GB, the MacBook Pro has 2GB of internal memory and is only expandable up to 4GB. The dell has a much larger hard drive of 320GB running at 7200 rpm which also was better than the MacBook Pro, which has a 250GB hard drive running at 5400 rpm.
Both the dell and Mac have a 15.4 inch widescreen display and are both LED-backlit which increases images and reduces battery consumption.
The Dell really lacks in an area where the MacBook Pro has been improved. The MacBook Pro offers a integrated graphics processor (NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor, with 256MB of memory. It also offers a dedicated graphics card (NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT discrete processor with 256MB of memory). This allows you to control them using the integrated graphics chip when you’d prefer more battery life than quality of graphics. On the other hand you can switch it so the quality of graphics is what you want and your battery system can be plugged into a power point.
Both of the notebooks allow Bluetooth connectivity and Ethernet ports but the dell notebook was the only one with 3G wireless broadband. The Dell has four 2.0 USB ports and the MacBook Pro really lacks in this area with only two. Both of the laptops are approximately the same weight. But the MacBook Pro at, 2.5kgs, came just under the Dell at, 2.7kgs. The MacBook Pro’s battery is advertised as up to five hours on its 50WHr battery. On the other hand the dell is advertised as a “long-life battery.”
The MacBook Pro offers an extensive more amount of software when you first buy it compared to any PC notebooks. With the purchase of the MacBook Pro you receive iLife ’09 suite with tones of applications. Including iMovie, Garage Band, iWeb and many more. The MacBook also offers you a backlight keyboard, large multi-touch trackpad and has a sleek aluminium shell.
The costs are fairly similar with the MacBook Pro coming in at $1999 where as the Dell Precision M4400 costs $2013. The MacBook is much more reliable than the Dell as it is well designed, well built, and is not targeted by all the viruses and malware software created which is aimed towards Windows computers.
LAPTOPS
APPLE MACBOOK PRO 13
Radically overhauled last year, Apple's MacBook line of laptops moved to aluminium construction, edge-to-edge glass over LED displays, and oversize multi-touch trackpads (with the exception of the lone AU$1599 white plastic model). The latest round of updates is more of a refinement than another revolution, but it adds some much-sought-after features, while lowering prices on many configurations.
Most notable, the 13-inch aluminium unibody MacBook has been promoted to join the MacBook Pro family. It's a move that makes sense, as the differences between the two lines were becoming increasingly blurred. To complete the transformation, the 13-inch Pro regains its missing FireWire port, making it even more useful for creative professionals on the go.
New to the Pro line is something we never thought we'd see on a MacBook: an SD card slot. Standard on the 13- and 15-inch Pro laptops, this corrects one of our main MacBook annoyances. We're also pleased to see the backlit keyboard — previously found in only the more expensive 13-inch versions — filter down to even the AU$1899 base model.
Some have strong feelings about the non-removable battery — similar to those already found on the MacBook Air and 17-inch Pro. It's a legitimate concern, but we think the promise of better battery life (Apple claims up to a 40 per cent improvement), and three times as many recharge cycles as older batteries is just as important.
There are still a few items on our 13-inch wish list — matte screens, mobile broadband options, Blu-ray — but Apple has done an admirable job filling in some of the major missing pieces. By offering more features for less money, the 13-inch MacBook Pro remains one of the most universally useful laptops available.
Design
The design and construction of the system remain largely the same as last year's model, with a solid block of aluminium carved down, rather than a thin outer shell that has had support struts added to it. It's both lighter and sturdier than the older plastic versions of the 13-inch MacBook.
The new Pro also retains the same oversize trackpad, where the entire surface depresses like a button — although a simple tapping (as on a PC laptop) will also work once you turn that option on in the settings menu. We've become accustomed to the two-, three-, and four-finger multi-touch gestures, which let you hide all your apps by sweeping four fingers up on the pad, or bring up the application switcher by sweeping four fingers left or right. Once you get used to that, going back to a regular touch pad is difficult.
Apple says the new display offers a wider colour gamut, and the screen certainly looks bright and colourful, but we wish the same matte-screen option offered on the 17-inch MacBook Pro was available across the line. The 13.3-inch widescreen LCD display offers a 1280x800 native resolution, which is standard for screens this size, but we'd love to see Apple try its hand at a 16:9 laptop display.
While the LED screen means a thinner lid and some battery life benefits, the edge-to-edge glass covering the entire display panel grabs stray light rays with ease, making the glossy screen hard to see in some lighting conditions.
Features
By bringing back the FireWire port (now FireWire 800) and adding an SD card slot, Apple has addressed most of our most pressing issues with the previous 13-inch model. Pro photographers will point out that they usually use CF cards, but the rest of us won't have to always remember to pack a USB card reader or cable to directly connect our cameras. Connecting to another video display, however, will require a sold-separately dongle for the Mini-DisplayPort video output.
Performance
The 13-inch MacBook Pro performed as expected in our benchmark tests, with the 2.26GHz GHz Intel Core 2 Duo CPU roughly on par with the 2.4GHz processor in the late-2008 version of the 13-inch MacBook. Trading up to the faster 2.8GHz Core 2 Duo available in the 15-inch MacBook Pro yields a marked improvement on paper, but for most anecdotal use (web surfing, working on office docs, multimedia playback) any of the current MacBooks will be more than adequate. An even faster 3.08GHz CPU is available on the 15-inch MacBook Pro, but the 13-inch model tops out at 2.53GHz.
We found the same Nvidia GeForce 9400 graphics as last time — a GPU that redefined the meaning of integrated graphics. The previous 13-inch MacBook gave us almost 60 frames per second in Quake IV (admittedly not the most hardware-intensive game) at 1024x768 resolution. Only the 15- and 17-inch versions offer the second, discrete GeForce 9600 GPU. But being able to play new games, even at lower resolutions, on this system is a major plus for non-hardcore gamers.
The new battery in the 13- and 15-inch MacBook Pros is non-removable, but Apple claims the system can last up to seven hours while surfing the web, and about half that for DVD playback. To assuage concerns about the sealed battery, the company says the new models are good for at least 1000 full recharge cycles — which they estimate to be about five years of use. We were able to run the system for four hours and 40 minutes on our video playback battery drain test, which is about 40 minutes longer than last year's 13-inch MacBook and more than an hour longer than the basic white MacBook — the only model Apple still offers with the older removable battery.
Unfortunately, we haven't seen any changes to the basics of Apple's warranty and support plans. New MacBooks still include a standard one-year, parts-and-labour warranty, but only 90 days of toll-free telephone support. This, along with the proprietary nature of Apple's products, makes purchasing an extended Apple Care warranty almost a necessity, but a necessity that will cost AU$419 for three total years of coverage for 13-inch systems and AU$579 for 15- and 17-inch models.
http://www.zdnet.com.au/reviews/hardware/laptops/soa/Apple-MacBook-Pro-13-inch-June-2009-/0,2000065761,339296879,00.htm
CNET Asia Review
By **Stephanie Bruzzese**
Aug 18, 2004
IBM's new ThinkPad R51 focuses on function. The mainstream laptop's plain black case doesn't elicit excitement, but its fast Pentium M processor and ATI Mobility Radeon graphics chip deliver ample horsepower for the average user in the home or business. In addition to speed, the IBM ThinkPad R51 boasts some cool component options, such as a 15-inch display with a fine 1,400x1,050 native resolution, a DVD-RW drive, and integrated 802.11b/g wireless. Load up on these options, however, and you could owe IBM a pretty penny, because high-end configurations are pricey. If you're a typical business or home user on a budget and you'd be satisfied with a basic configuration, give the IBM ThinkPad R51 a try. Those with a few more Ben Franklins, however, should graduate to a better-equipped thin-and-light laptop, such as the IBM ThinkPad T41 or the HP nc8000.
The test configuration came loaded with a Banias-based Pentium M 1.6GHz processor, a maximum resolution of 1400 x 1050 and no FireWire. However, the unit which comes with a S$3,525 (US$2,495.58) pricetag has a Dothan-based Pentium M Processor 725 1.6GHz with a maximum resolution of 1024 x 768 and FireWire connectivity. Please check with your local distributor for more information.
Design
The IBM ThinkPad R51's no-nonsense design doesn't knock our socks off, but this mainstream laptop successfully meets the demands of mobile computing on a tight budget. The 332 x 269 x 38.1 mm laptop weighs 3.0kg on its own, and it's 3.35kg with the AC adapter. One of its best features is a big, 15-inch screen with a high 1,400 x 1,050 native resolution that renders crisp graphics. The wide, comfortable keyboard comes in a close second, offering a familiar, desktoplike layout with one glaring omission: a useful Windows key that activates the Windows Start menu and gives you instant access to applications and system tools. IBM's signature red pointing stick rests above the B key, with a trio of complementary mouse and scroll buttons in the wrist rest below. The company also keeps touch-pad fans in mind, including a pad with two additional mouse buttons. Three handy volume-up, volume-down, and mute buttons sit in the upper-left corner above the board, along with an Access IBM button that connects you to online help and support for the R51.
The IBM ThinkPad R51 includes one convenient, swappable drive bay that supports various modules, including a cutting-edge DVD-RW drive. The 9.5mm-high modules for the thin-and-light IBM ThinkPad T42 conveniently fit in the R51's 12.7mm bay, but not vice versa. The bay opens out of the right edge, which also has a VGA port. A smattering of standard ports and slots reside on the left edge: there are ports for 56Kbps modem, Ethernet (either 10/100 or Gigabit, depending on which configuration you choose), headphone, microphone, S-Video out, two USB 2.0, and two Type II (one Type III) PC Card slots. FireWire isn't included in the offering. A lone parallel port occupies the back edge. The front edge slopes in, making the system appear slightly slimmer from a head-on view. Unfortunately, however, this design also points the speakers and their tinny sound down at your desk rather than straight at you.
Features
IBM offers a dizzying array of component options for the ThinkPad R51, including Celeron M or Pentium M processors, ranging from 1.3GHz to 1.7GHz; up to 2GB of fast 333MHz SDRAM; a CD, DVD, DVD/CD-RW, or DVD-RW drive; a 4,200rpm hard drive measuring between 20GB and 80GB; and a 5,400rpm hard drive at 40GB or 80GB. The R51 comes with IBM's Active Protection System, designed to protect your hard drive from sudden jolts. You can choose among three graphics options: the Intel Extreme Graphics 2 (855GME) integrated graphics subsystem, which borrows up to 64MB of video memory from system RAM, as well as ATI's Mobility Radeon 7500 or 9000 graphics chips with 32MB of dedicated video memory. Screen sizes range from 14.1 to 15 inches, and they feature native resolutions of either 1,024x768, which makes for large, easily readable text, or 1,400x1,050, which results in smaller text but more detailed graphics. You can also choose between 802.11g and dual-band 802.11g/a adapters.
The IBM Web site doesn't list all of these options, though. If you don't see an option online, order your system by phone. Keep in mind, however, that you can usually save a little cash by choosing an Express (that is, preconfigured) model from the site.
With all these options, how do you configure the ideal laptop? Luckily, based on the IBM ThinkPad R51's impressive performance in CNET Labs' tests, you can likely pick low-end parts without sacrificing too much speed. Plus, high-end models tend to cost more than comparably configured systems, such as the Gateway M405XL.
One of three Microsoft Windows operating systems comes preloaded on the IBM ThinkPad R51: XP Home, XP Professional, and for those who still can't make the leap to XP, Windows 2000. IBM also throws in InterVideo's WinDVD Creator for systems with a DVD-RW drive, and an IBM-branded version of Sonic's RecordNow for laptops with a DVD/CD-RW drive. IBM also bundles its Rescue and Recovery software for data retrieval when your system's in trouble. Finally, the company includes one user license for the Lotus SmartSuite Millennium office suite, along with the option to buy several variations of Microsoft Office.
Performance
Mobile application performance
The IBM ThinkPad R51 easily takes the top spot in this small test group. The R51 scored 12 percent ahead of its nearest competitor, the Gateway M405, and 15 percent ahead of the Toshiba Satellite M30-S350. This performance difference can be attributed mostly to the fact that the IBM ThinkPad R51 houses twice the RAM of its comparison systems.
Battery Life
Although the IBM ThinkPad R51 came in last place in battery life in CNET Labs' tests, the difference between being first and last is only six minutes. With its 10.8V, 4,400mAh (48WHr) battery the IBM ThinkPad R51 was able to achieve more than four hours of battery life, placing it neck and neck with competing systems. The Toshiba Satellite M30-S350 with its 10.8V, 4,400mAh (48WHr) battery, and the Gateway M405, with its 11.1V, 4,400mAh (49WHr) battery, both lasted only a few minutes longer. We think four hours is a good showing for the IBM ThinkPad R51.
Service And Support
The IBM ThinkPad R51's base warranty includes a single year of free parts and labor with return-to-depot service--a standard warranty for the laptop industry. But the company offers a long list of upgrades that max out at $399 for four years of onsite, next-business-day service. Toll-free, 24-hour phone support lasts for the length of your warranty.
IBM's support Web site features an extensive, drill-down design that offers news, downloads, and other info about your R51. The site's Submit a Request feature allows you to contact support electronically, but we wish the company offered the more efficient ability to chat with a support rep in real time.
http://asia.cnet.com/reviews/notebooks/0,39050488,39074140p,00.htm
Component 4 – Technical and Operational Understandings
Verity Wilkinson
Introduction:
Laptops are a smaller and more compacted version of a Desktop Computer. They are portable which allows people to take their work anywhere. They all have a built in keyboard, display screen and hard-drives which can vary in size. Laptops come in a variety of sizes from small 13inch to large 17inch. There are many variations of Laptops because of their popularity with students, offices and in the family home.
Two laptops that I am comparing are the IBM ThinkPad and the Apple Mac Pro.
IBM ThinkPad:
The IBM ThinkPad is a larger computer with fast mobile performance, wide keyboard and 15 inch screen. It comes with a 56kbps modern, two USB ports, type 2 SD card slot, CD-WR /DVD-ROM, headphones and microphone ports and a 256GB solid state drive although this is low storage to run Windows XP. The battery life lasts around 4 hours.
It has 802.11b/g wireless internet, Pentium M 1.5GHz which provides an improvement in the speed of the processors and the wireless networking. Also has an ATI Mobility Radeon Graphic chip which delivers lots of horsepower for the average family home.
Pros
- It comes with Windows XP professional OS
- APS hard drive Protection
- Well priced
- Full sized Keyboard
Cons
- Low storage and Memory for most users they will need to upgrade the memory.
- Lacks well know productivity software
- Low quality graphic
Apple Mac book Pro 13:
The Apple Mac Book is offered with three different screens 13inch, 15inch and 17inch all varying in prices. The 13inch Mac book weight only 2.04kg and 2.40cm thick which make it easily portable like an extra book. This model has a better battery life then previous Mac books. The battery last for around 4 an half hours with 1000 recharges.
It has many similar aspects to the ThinkPad with two USB ports, headphone and microphone ports, Type 1 and 2 SD card slot and a solid state drive of 256GB. The Mac Book Pro is LED back it on the keyboard and screen, Multi-touch track-pad, a FireWire of 800 and Wi-Fi technology built in which allows the Mac Book to join with any wireless networks. There is a resolution of 1280x800 which is standard for screens of 13inch.
Warranty is the Apple Mac Book standard 1 year and for extra three year warranty it is at an extra cost of $420.
Pros
- Bright screen
- Long battery life
- SD Card slot
- Can run on both Windows and OX S
Cons
- No matte screen
- Low volume
- No ExpressCard/34 slot which is in other Mac Books
Prices
The cost of a Mac Book Pro 13 is $2399.00 and the price goes up with the different sizes (15inch, 17inch) and if there up grades put on the computer e.g. extra memory. This is less than the price of the ThinkPad which is $2,899.00 the ThinkPad cost more because it is larger computer. If the Mac Book Pro was the same size it would around the same price.
Hard-wear
With all Laptops there are many other technologies hardware that can be used including a simple mouse or USB to a Printer, Scanner, and Portable Hard-drives. These are all at an extra cost to the computer.
Soft wear
For each computer a Windows or similar starting program is required. All Laptops have an Internet Search program for web surfing. Although for word publishing another soft-wear is required for example Mircosoft Word. Microsoft has other programs that would be needed for just basic word publishing. Adobe supplies the good programs for design. Again like the Hard-wear all soft-wear is at an extra cost.
PC Laptops
Mia Murdock
The technology
- Portable
- As good or can be better than computers
- Able to run all processing and publishing programs
- Can easily be used to perform desktop publishing
- Where all the publishing is done before taken to the printers
Comparing a PC Laptop to a Mac book
- PC’s are cheaper that Mac’s
- If the optical drive in an iMac or mini dies, owners must pay for Apple's proprietary replacement parts or buy an expensive external DVD burner, this is because the internal drives are built into the chassis, they aren't user-replaceable parts.
- Mac OS is superior to Windows for graphic design and desktop publishing as these softwares run better on Mac’s.
Therefore Mac would be better for desktop publishing than a PC.
Hardware/Software required
- Software needed is specially designed programs for desktop publishing such as Adobe Photoshop, InDesign etc
- Hardware needed is a suitably sized hard drive large enough to store photos, end products and the software
Cost and reliability of the products
- PC’s are often very reliable
- A good laptop will cost over $1000
- Ongoing cost of having to update software
- Often warranty on computers therefore don’t have to pay for repairs for certain amount of time
- Laptops become out of date very quickly
Presentation 2: Component 4 – Technical and Operational Understandings
By Kate Dornin
There has always been a debate about whether Mac or PC is better. But for years it was hard to compare them as many components were very different. But since Macs have changed over to Intel Processors it has made the comparison easier. PC makers are copying Apple’s range of features to remain competitive and now days the two types of computers are extremely similar.
I compared the low-end MacBook Pro to a windows Dell Precision M4400
The Dell laptop has a better processor with a 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo with 6MB of Level 2 cache, where as the MacBook Pro has a 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo with 3MB of Level 2 cache. The dell has more memory with 4GB as standard and is additionally expandable up to 8GB, the MacBook Pro has 2GB of internal memory and is only expandable up to 4GB. The dell has a much larger hard drive of 320GB running at 7200 rpm which also was better than the MacBook Pro, which has a 250GB hard drive running at 5400 rpm.
Both the dell and Mac have a 15.4 inch widescreen display and are both LED-backlit which increases images and reduces battery consumption.
The Dell really lacks in an area where the MacBook Pro has been improved. The MacBook Pro offers a integrated graphics processor (NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor, with 256MB of memory. It also offers a dedicated graphics card (NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT discrete processor with 256MB of memory). This allows you to control them using the integrated graphics chip when you’d prefer more battery life than quality of graphics. On the other hand you can switch it so the quality of graphics is what you want and your battery system can be plugged into a power point.
Both of the notebooks allow Bluetooth connectivity and Ethernet ports but the dell notebook was the only one with 3G wireless broadband. The Dell has four 2.0 USB ports and the MacBook Pro really lacks in this area with only two. Both of the laptops are approximately the same weight. But the MacBook Pro at, 2.5kgs, came just under the Dell at, 2.7kgs. The MacBook Pro’s battery is advertised as up to five hours on its 50WHr battery. On the other hand the dell is advertised as a “long-life battery.”
The MacBook Pro offers an extensive more amount of software when you first buy it compared to any PC notebooks. With the purchase of the MacBook Pro you receive iLife ’09 suite with tones of applications. Including iMovie, Garage Band, iWeb and many more. The MacBook also offers you a backlight keyboard, large multi-touch trackpad and has a sleek aluminium shell.
The costs are fairly similar with the MacBook Pro coming in at $1999 where as the Dell Precision M4400 costs $2013. The MacBook is much more reliable than the Dell as it is well designed, well built, and is not targeted by all the viruses and malware software created which is aimed towards Windows computers.